Biogas most viable for small cars, says Maruti’s RC Bhargava

Biogas is the most viable fuel for small cars in India given the abundant availability of the bio waste in the country, RC Bhargava, chairman, Maruti Suzuki India, said. According to him, battery-powered vehicles at present have many limitations for users of small cars, including price and charging facilities, and are more suitable for those with higher income levels. His comments come against the backdrop of Suzuki Motor Corp committing investment in biogas.

“Biogas is the best fuel as it is renewable and has zero emission. It’s the best solution for small cars in India. Depending on the way various technologies develop, particularly the way the battery prices come down, the situation may change in the future,” Bhargava told ET on the sidelines of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit.

Unlike homegrown manufacturers such as Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra, which are largely banking on electric vehicles to achieve carbon neutrality, the local arm of the Japanese car maker is looking at multiple technologies including hybrids, EVs and bio-CNG to achieve the goal.

It would launch its first EV in FY25 as part of a plan to have a portfolio of half a dozen EVs at various price points by 2030. As of now, Tata Motors Tiago.ev and MG Motor India’s Comet are the only EVs that have their prices starting from below ₹10 lakh. Even Maruti’s first pure electric offering will have a premium price positioning.